Have I Got Menieres Disease?

Have I Got Menieres Disease?

Menieres disease is a rare condition of the inner ear. It can result in tinnitus, vertigo and hearing loss. It can also cause a pressure sensation within the ear. It is common for sufferers to experience several or all of these symptoms during an episode. These can last for a couple of hours or more. It may take two days for the symptoms to subside completely.

Severity can vary wildly. Some sufferers have frequent attacks consisting of just vertigo with deafness. Others have tinnitus and mild vertigo. Sometimes people suffer from hyperacusis which is increased sound sensitivity. Occasionally the sound may also be distorted.

Tinnitus this is the perception of sound when no outside source is present. It may be perceived as a ringing or buzzing in the ears. Some musicians are able to tell the exact note of the sound.

Vertigo is the spinning feeling you experience when you get off a roundabout. It can be nauseating and cause vomiting. It may also be disabling and stop people being able to look after themselves.

Visit your GP if you have any of these symptoms. You may need to see a specialist. 

No one knows what causes Menieres disease but it is thought to be caused by a a problem with the pressure within the inner ear. The inner ear consists of the cochlear and the vestibular apparatus. The cochlea is a coiled tube containing two liquid filled cavities which help with hearing. The vestibular apparatus is a set of curved tubes which help balance.

The liquid inside the inner ear is called endolymph. If the pressure changes in this fluid then tinnitus, vertigo and deafness can occur.

Risk factors for the condition include autoimmune diseases, genetic or inherited factors. Another cause is if there is a problem with the salt content of the blood or a problem with the blood vessels supplying the middle ear. There is an association between migraines and Menieres disease. Viral meningitis has also been implicated.

Please only use this article for interest/reference. It is not intended to be medical advice. Consult your doctor if you need advice.

Dr Toby Bateson writing for ZenPlugs